STAY Hostel
Yes, budget hotels in Los Angeles do exist. And with today’s economy, a cheap hotel in LA is a good hotel. These top picks offer some aspect of value, whether it’s a hidden find or a surprising number of amenities. Hotel rates range from a mere $40 to a moderate $170 — but whatever the price, they’re all bargain hotels. Start here on your search for the perfect Los Angeles budget hotel and save some money on your next trip to the city.
STAY
Location: Downtown LA
Best For: Young travelers on a budget but don’t want to skimp
Avg. Price: $80
Part boutique hotel and part hostel, STAY offers hip lodgings at even hipper prices. The key here is variety: depending on budget and lifestyle, a stint at STAY can range from shared rooms to a kitschy and cute private room with plenty of design elements to enjoy. Critics have touted the hybrid hotel/hostel as the next generation of budget accommodations, and guests have widely praised its amenities (flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, DVD players on request). An edgy feel, online and personal interactivity and a spectrum of available room types all make the Stay experience unique to the individual traveler.
The Cecil Hotel
Location: Downtown LA
Best For: Experienced travelers who like a bit of city adventure
Avg. Price: $90
Built in 1927, the Cecil is one of the most historic hotels in Los Angeles, and after a recent multi-million dollar renovation, “budget” isn’t exactly what comes to mind, especially when you walk into the European-style lobby, which boasts marble floors and stained glass skylights. Modeled after affordable European hotels, the Cecil’s rooms offer simple and comfortable furnishings while hints of elegance appear throughout the hotel. Located in Downtown Los Angeles near the LA Fashion District, the Cecil has become a top pick for savvy international visitors who know a good deal when they see one.
The Inn at 657
Location: Downtown LA
Best For: Honeymooners and romantics
Avg. Price: $130
You might think all of LA’s hotels are by nature all looks and no character, but The Inn at 657 — a verifiable bed-and-breakfast in Los Angeles — offers a quaint atmosphere for those seeking a respite from the city. Most reviews of the inn call it a hidden gem, incredible considering it’s only a mile from the Los Angeles Convention Center. The remarkably reasonable prices include a generous breakfast, parking and access to their lush gardens.
Hostelling International Santa Monica
Location: Santa Monica
Best For: Student travelers and young singles
Avg. Price: $45
It’s a dream for most travelers: waking up to the sound of the ocean, sun shining and just steps from the sand. Better yet, there are new people to meet and plenty to do. Santa Monica’s hostel, which recently underwent a $2 million renovation, offers some of the best dormitory amenities around, including a café for breakfast, Internet access, luggage storage, TV and movie rooms and much more. The hostel often hosts performances such as yoga workshops and poetry readings, as well as live music. With Santa Monica at your fingertips, it’s a hard deal to pass up.
Venice Beach Suites
Location: Venice Beach
Best For: Families who like excitement…and a little weirdness.
Avg. Price: $170
Situated right on the Venice Oceanfront Walk, this iconic hotel has long been part of the action. Step outside and you’ll find yourself watching jugglers, tattoo artists, musicians, preachers and more of the Venice crowd. Beyond that: the sand and ocean. The hotel has only 28 rooms, so reserve well in advance. If you’re lucky enough to snag a reservation, you’ll have a chance to experience Venice at its best. Be sure to rent a bicycle, have lunch at the nearby café and enjoy the hotel’s vintage atmosphere.
Vagabond Inn
Location: San Pedro
Best For: Travelers who want to see the sights before their cruises
Avg. Price: $80
Many of the Vagabond’s guests stop in before leaving on cruises from the nearby Port of Los Angeles. With cruise ship luxury waiting for them, it’s hardly a problem staying in the hotel’s uncomplicated lodgings, which provide clean rooms and a location central to the area’s attractions — Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, Ports o’ Call Village, the Korean Bell of Friendship and more.
Econolodge of Hollywood
Location: Hollywood
Best For: Tourists on a mission to hit all the sights
Avg. Price: $90
It’s Hollywood, and for visitors who want to cram it all in, there’s not much room for hotel lounging. That’s where Econolodge comes in with its straightforward service and surprisingly spacious rooms. By the time you’re ready to crash from a full day of attractions, you’ll be grateful not to have to deal with the frills of the über-chic hotels in the area.
